TEMPTATION

Can You Handle It?

As a five year old, I'd run to my dad whan a certain 11 year old bully would pick on me. My reliance on Dad would dispel my fears. As log as I was in my Father's presence, although weak compared to the bully, I was safe and empowered through him. I once tried to take care of the bully myself to prove myself to him and to me. BIG MISTAKE. That got me roughed up and mocked. He was too big and powerful for me. But he was no match for Dad. The same holds true when we turn to our heavenly Dad when temptation strikes. But we keep having to learn we're no match for the ultimate bully - Satan
Of course, there is a distinct difference between how the neighborhood bully threatened me and how temptation works, Temptation usually seduces rather to appear threateneing. But the way of escapi is identical (1 Corinthians 10:13)
As a kid it didn't take much for me to learn to run protection from the bully. But it became another matter to train myself to rush head-long into the arms of God. The Key is that we have to have and intimacy with Him, so that when the warning signals appear we will rush to him without delay. The natural incliation is to handle it in my own power, but I will lose every time.
When temptation strikes, embrace God. As in James 4:7 the Devil will flee, but will return many times. Only with the strength of he Heavenly Father, you will be able to stand your ground.

May God Bless your efforts:
Bro. Jay